When it comes to choosing a van, fuel efficiency is a key consideration, especially with rising fuel costs and increasing environmental awareness. The market offers a variety of options, but identifying the top vans with best gas mileage can make a significant difference in both your wallet and your carbon footprint. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly minivan with plenty of space and comfort or a versatile cargo van for your business, fuel efficiency remains a top priority. From hybrid powertrains to smart engineering, these top-performing vans deliver impressive miles per gallon, ensuring that your journeys are economical and eco-friendly. Let’s dive into the best options available in 2024 that strike the perfect balance between performance and fuel economy.
#1 2024 Toyota Sienna
Imagine cruising in the 2024 Toyota Sienna, sipping fuel like it’s the fanciest espresso in town. This van is all about that hybrid life, boasting a stellar 36 MPG combined for the front-wheel-drive model and 35 MPG for the all-wheel-drive version. Who said you can’t have efficiency and space in one sleek package? The Sienna also comes with a generous 38.7 inches of rear legroom, making it feel more like a luxury limo for your kids or your carpool buddies. It’s got the 5-star safety rating and Top Safety Pick+ badge, so you know it can handle a bumper car incident with style and grace.
However, all this eco-friendly goodness comes with a tiny hiccup. The hybrid setup does cut down on cargo space a bit, so if you’re planning to haul a grand piano or a year’s supply of Costco goodies, you might need to think twice. But hey, who needs cargo space when you can smugly tell everyone you’re driving the van equivalent of a Prius? If you’re all about those green vibes and a comfy ride, the Sienna is ready to be your trusty steed.
#2 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Meet the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, the van that’s so clever it might just outsmart you. This bad boy isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s about doing it with 32 miles of electric-only range before it even thinks about sipping gasoline. And even when the juice runs out, it’s still as efficient as a marathon runner on a carb-loading diet. Plus, it has the Stow ‘n Go seats, which means your second-row seats disappear into the floor like magic, giving you a flat cargo area that’s perfect for, well, anything!
But wait, there’s more! The Pacifica Hybrid comes with all the bells and whistles to keep you entertained and comfortable. Fancy some all-wheel drive? You got it. Need seating for up to eight passengers? No problem. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife on wheels. Sure, the hybrid version might set you back a bit more at the dealership, but with all the fuel savings and features, you’ll be laughing all the way to the bank (or at least to your next family road trip).
#3 2024 Ford Transit Connect Wagon
2024 Ford Transit Connect Wagon – the van that’s compact enough to park in the city but roomy enough to fit your entire collection of garden gnomes. This van is all about flexibility and fuel efficiency, delivering a solid 26 MPG combined. It’s got seating configurations that are more versatile than a Swiss Army knife, and it’s perfect for both people and cargo. With the best-in-class infotainment system, you’ll feel like you’re driving a luxury sedan rather than a practical van.
Sure, it might not be as luxurious as a full-fledged minivan, and it’s not flaunting any hybrid credentials, but who needs all that when you’ve got practicality and flexible seating on your side? The Ford Transit Connect Wagon is your go-to for a smooth ride around town, and it’s affordable enough to leave you some change for those extra-large drive-thru orders. It’s the ideal choice for those who want efficiency without sacrificing fun and functionality.
#4 2024 Honda Odyssey
Hop into the 2024 Honda Odyssey and get ready to transform every drive into an epic saga. This minivan is all about comfort and space, boasting a whopping 144.9 cubic feet of cargo room. That’s like having your own personal storage unit on wheels! Plus, with fun features like CabinWatch, you can keep an eye on the kids in the back without doing the awkward rearview mirror dance. It’s got CabinTalk, too, so you can make sure everyone hears your amazing road trip playlist.
But the Odyssey isn’t just about hauling kids and cargo; it’s about doing it with style. With a combined fuel economy of 22 MPG, it’s not exactly a hybrid, but it’s definitely not a gas guzzler either. And with solid crash-test scores, you can feel safe knowing the Odyssey has got your back, front, and sides. Whether you’re ferrying the family to soccer practice or embarking on a cross-country adventure, the Odyssey is ready to make every mile a memorable one. It’s one of the top choices among vans with best gas mileage.
#5 2024 Kia Carnival
The 2024 Kia Carnival is here to convince you that minivans can be cool – like, really cool. Sporting a rugged, SUV-like exterior, the Carnival packs a punch with its 3.5-liter V6 engine that churns out a best-in-class 290 horsepower. It’s got the muscle to match its looks, all while delivering a respectable 22 MPG combined. Inside, it’s a posh paradise with seating for up to eight passengers, a sleek touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
However, don’t let the fancy features fool you; the Carnival is all about practical fun. It might not match the fuel economy of the hybrid Sienna or Pacifica, but it sure makes up for it in style and power. With its blend of SUV swagger and minivan utility, the Kia Carnival is the perfect ride for those who want to stand out in the school pickup line and enjoy a smooth, powerful drive on the open road.
#6 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van
This ride combines the smoothness of a Benz with the practicality of a cargo van, making it perfect for those long days on the road. With a combined 20 MPG, it’s not the thriftiest on fuel, but what it lacks in economy, it makes up for in style and comfort. The Metris is nimble enough to maneuver through tight city streets yet spacious enough to handle your business needs.
However, all good things come to an end, and the Metris will be discontinued in the U.S. after 2023. So, if you’re looking to ride in a van that makes you feel like a boss, now’s your chance. Just remember, it’s pricier than its rivals and some driver-assistance features cost extra. But for the high-quality interior and impressive driving dynamics, it’s worth every penny.
